Agencies
Tehran
On the eve of India's 2018 World Cup qualifier against Iran, India chief coach Stephen Constantine speaks at length about his thoughts on Iran, the absence of his three key players, juggling things around, the bulging list of 22 debutants and draws the fine line between being a gambler and a strategist.
EXCERPTS:
Q:How much of a setback is it to miss Sunil Chhetri in such a match?
SC: It's huge setback! He has been talisman for the National Team for the last 5-6 years. Obviously it’s a big loss for us as it would be a loss for any team to miss a player like him.
Q: With Eugenson Lyngdoh and Robin Sigh also not available, India will be fielding a depleted squad..
SC: You also need to add Dhanpal Ganesh to that list “ he had suffered a similar injury like Robin when we last played Iran in Bengaluru in September 2015. Obviously when four of your starting members miss such a match, that too in key positions, it rubs salt. It’s problematic. But at the same time, it gives the opportunity for the others to step up and make an impression. This is what we have and we have to live with the situation.
Q: You did make a mention that you may have to juggle things around. What did you mean by that?
SC: We have four players who are carrying yellow cards. So if any of them picks up another yellow against Iran, they won’t be available for our next home match against Turkmenistan on March 29. The dilemma stays “ do I play all of them? Or do I play some, and rest the others? Or do I rest all? That’s a decision which I need to take. And that’s a serious headache.
Q: 22 players so far have made their debuts. Will we see more against Iran?
SC: You need to wait for the kick-off. It’s quite possible.
Q: You have a philosophy to hand International debuts to young Players. Is it a gamble, or is it a strategy?
SC: There’s always an element of gamble in it “ simple because you never know how it’s going to turn out. But I believe in ability. I believe in the character of the player.
Q:Describe Iran.
SC: Big! Strong! Powerful! Quick!They are just fantastic with their movements both on and off the ball; not to forget about their great pedigree in the world of football. For sure they are one of the best footballing nations in Asia. The rank of 44 doesn’t come to you in one day. They are just the overwhelming favourites.
